RioProgress The Podcast

About RioProgress The Podcast

At RioProgress, we believe every student and family in the Rio Grande Valley deserves the tools, knowledge, and confidence to reach higher education. Our podcast shares stories, insights, and resources that open doors—whether you’re a parent guiding your child, a student charting your path, or a community member ready to make a difference. Together, we’re building a future where education is accessible, dreams are achievable, and progress is for everyone.

Publisher

RioProgress

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

22 Aug 2025

Latest episode

3 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   3 Sept 2026

   Ep. 16 How to finish what you started?

   In this episode, our operations director, Phil Donaus, sits down with fitness trainer and medical professional Ricky Martinez to discuss his unconventional journey through higher education and the mindset that helped him persevere along the way. From balancing work and school to overcoming setbacks, Ricky reflects on the experiences that ultimately led him to complete his degree.Throughout the conversation, Ricky shares the routines, habits, and perspectives that transformed his approach to learning, including the importance of building a strong support system, eliminating distractions and "locking in" when pursuing long-term goals, and discovering a genuine love for reading as a tool for both personal and professional growth. Together, Phil and Ricky explore how discipline, consistency, and community can make all the difference for students navigating their own educational journeys.Whether you're currently in college, considering returning to school, or simply looking for motivation to pursue your goals, this episode offers practical insights on building habits that last and staying committed when the path forward isn't always straightforward.Our full episode notes can be found at ⁠rioprogress.org/podcastResources:⁠RioProgress.org⁠Support our work:Donate: ⁠rioprogress.org/donate⁠Sign up for updates: ⁠https://rioprogress.org/podcast/► For partnership inquiries: ⁠info@rioprogress.org

2. 

   27 Aug 2026

   Ep. 15 What is the current state of education?

   In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, and operations director, Phil Donaus, reflect on what they've learned through years of working alongside students and families across the Rio Grande Valley. Together, they share observations from the front lines of educational equity, unpack emerging challenges that today's families should be paying attention to, and explain why the next few years will be especially critical for students preparing for life after high school. Whether you're a parent, student, educator, or community member, this episode offers an honest reflection on where we've been, where we're headed, and what we can all do to help more students achieve their goals.Support our work:Donate: rioprogress.org/donateSign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

3. 

   20 Aug 2026

   Ep. 14 Preguntas Comunes/FAQs

   In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, answers some of the most frequently asked questions from students and families across the Rio Grande Valley in both English and Spanish. Drawing on years of experience working alongside first-generation and low-income students, Maria Fernanda breaks down complex college access topics into clear, actionable advice. Whether you're a student planning your next steps or a parent trying to navigate the process, this bilingual episode is designed to help families make informed decisions with confidence.En este episodio, nuestra directora ejecutiva, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, responde a algunas de las preguntas más frecuentes que reciben de estudiantes y familias de todo el Valle del Río Grande, tanto en inglés como en español. Basándose en años de experiencia trabajando junto a estudiantes de primera generación y de bajos recursos, Maria Fernanda explica temas complejos sobre el acceso a la educación superior de manera clara y práctica. Ya seas un estudiante que está planeando sus próximos pasos o un padre de familia que busca orientar a su hijo durante este proceso, este episodio bilingüe fue creado para ayudar a las familias a tomar decisiones informadas con confianza.Support our work:Donate: rioprogress.org/donateSign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

4. 

   13 Aug 2026

   Ep. 13 What happens after you get into an Ivy League?

   In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, sits down with Aaron Molina, RioProgress' very first student and beta tester, who recently graduated from Princeton University. Together they reflect on Aaron's journey from navigating the uncertainty of the college application process to earning his degree, offering an honest look at the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way.Aaron shares what it was like to navigate Princeton as a first-generation, low-income student, discussing everything from finding community and overcoming imposter syndrome to serving as a Resident Advisor and growing into a leadership role on campus. The conversation explores how mentorship, resilience, and a willingness to ask for help shaped his college experience, while offering practical advice for students preparing to take their own next steps.Whether you're applying to college, starting your first semester, or wondering what life is really like at a highly selective university, Aaron's story is a reminder that success isn't about having all the answers from the beginning—it's about continuing to move forward despite uncertainty.Don't forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: rioprogress.orgOur full episode notes can be found at ⁠rioprogress.org/podcastResources:⁠RioProgress.org⁠Support our work:Donate: ⁠rioprogress.org/donate⁠Sign up for updates: ⁠https://rioprogress.org/podcast/► For partnership inquiries: ⁠info@rioprogress.org

5. 

   21 Apr 2026

   Ep. 12 What does it take to succeed?

   In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, talks with Jen and Vero, founders of JZD, a Brownsville-based lifestyle and apparel brand celebrating Latina and LGBTQ+ identities. Together they explore the journey from selling a single "Latina Power" t-shirt on Etsy in 2016 to collaborating with national retailers — and how a desire for safety and representation led to a brand rooted in the everyday art form of Spanglish. Jen and Vero reflect on the heavy expectations placed on the eldest children in Mexican-American households, while sharing how the resilience they developed navigating adult responsibilities and college access barriers helped them build an unapologetic business. The conversation dives into the harsh realities of corporate tokenism, the importance of demanding your worth as a marginalized creator, and why you should stop waiting for the perfect moment to start chasing your dreams. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: rioprogress.org (https://rioprogress.org) Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/episodes (https://rioprogress.org/episodes) Resources: JZD RioProgress.org (https://rioprogress.org) Support our work: Donate: rioprogress.org/donate (https://rioprogress.org/donate) Sign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe (https://rioprogress.org/subscribe) ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org (mailto:info@rioprogress.org)

6. 

   16 Nov 2025

   Ep. 10 ¿Cómo impulsamos el éxito de nuestros estudiantes?

   En este episodio, nuestra directora ejecutiva, María Fernanda Martínez-Donaus, conversa con Olga Méndez, maestra, bibliotecaria y apasionada promotora de la lectura, sobre cómo impulsamos el éxito académico y personal de nuestros estudiantes. Juntas reflexionan sobre el papel que juegan las familias en fomentar el hábito lector, la importancia del ejemplo en casa y la manera en que la lectura nutre la curiosidad, el pensamiento crítico y la confianza de los jóvenes.La conversación destaca la relación entre educación, cultura y comunidad, subrayando cómo las bibliotecas, los maestros y el acceso a los libros pueden transformar oportunidades y abrir caminos. Olga también comparte su trayectoria como inmigrante, educadora y líder escolar, ofreciendo consejos prácticos para apoyar a los niños en un mundo donde la tecnología y la información cambian rápidamente.Support our work:Donate: rioprogress.org/donateSign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

7. 

   7 Nov 2025

   Ep. 09 ¿Cómo se hereda una cultura?

   En este episodio especial, nuestra directora ejecutiva, María Fernanda Martínez-Donaus, conversa con Nubia Nava, educadora, escritora y soñadora, sobre la importancia de preservar el idioma español como una forma de preservar nuestra cultura. Juntas reflexionan sobre el papel que juegan las familias en transmitir el idioma, cómo los padres pueden apoyar a sus hijos en este proceso, y la relación entre el lenguaje, la identidad y los sueños.La conversación destaca la conexión entre educación, cultura y propósito personal, invitando a la comunidad a valorar el poder de nuestras raíces lingüísticas y culturales. Nubia también comparte su experiencia como educadora bilingüe y ofrece consejos sobre cómo mantener vivo el español en casa mientras se fomenta la confianza y la creatividad en los jóvenes.No olvides visitar nuestros recursos sobre acceso universitario, éxito estudiantil y equidad educativa en RioProgress: rioprogress.orgEnlaces relevantes:Las notas completas del episodio están disponibles en rioprogress.org/podcast

8. 

   31 Oct 2025

   Special Episode: How do schools shape our community?

   In this special episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, sits down with Dr. Jesús Chávez, Superintendent of the Brownsville Independent School District (BISD), to discuss how strong public schools build strong communities. Together, they explore the journey from classroom to leadership, the importance of family engagement, and how Brownsville is preparing students for college, careers, and life. The conversation highlights the district’s focus on math and reading readiness, early college and CTE programs, and how parents can help students make the most of every educational opportunity — from elementary through high school. Dr. Chávez also shares insights on supporting teachers, investing in the arts, and what true progress looks like for Brownsville’s students and families. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: rioprogress.org (https://rioprogress.org/) Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org (https://rioprogress.org/special) Resources: Brownsville Independent School District (https://www.bisd.us/) Texas Education Agency (https://tea.texas.gov/) RioProgress College Access Programs (https://rioprogress.org/programs) BISD Bond Information (https://www.bisd.us/) Support our work: Donate: rioprogress.org/donate (https://rioprogress.org/donate) Sign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe (https://rioprogress.org/subscribe) ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org (mailto:info@rioprogress.org)

9. 

   12 Oct 2025

   Ep. 08 Do Entrepreneurs need college?

   In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, talks with Gilbert Hernandez, founder of Búho Books, Brownsville’s independent bookstore. Together they explore the journey from engineering to entrepreneurship — and how a single question led to the revival of a bookstore culture on the border. Gilbert reflects on the lessons college taught him about problem-solving, community, and resilience, while sharing how those same skills helped him build a business rooted in accessibility and belonging. The conversation dives into what it really takes to create change in your city, the role of education in entrepreneurship, and how to balance purpose with sustainability. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: rioprogress.org (https://rioprogress.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep8 Resources: Búho Books (https://www.instagram.com/buhobtx/) RioProgress.org (https://rioprogress.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Brownsville Chamber of Commerce Support our work: Donate: rioprogress.org/donate (https://rioprogress.org/donate) Sign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe (https://rioprogress.org/subscribe) ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org (mailto:info@rioprogress.org)

10. 

    5 Oct 2025

    Ep. 07 How do you grow into yourself?

    In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, talks with Dariana Leal, a RioProgress Cohort student and high-school senior, about exploring multiple passions and defining success on her own terms. From balancing architecture and law to overcoming essay stress and family expectations, Dariana reflects on learning to communicate, self-advocate, and find joy in the process of growth. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: rioprogress.org (https://rioprogress.org?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep7 Resources: Common App Guide | Texas Success Initiative Assessment| RioProgress Cohort Program | College Essay Writing Resources Support our work: Donate: rioprogress.org/donate (https://rioprogress.org/donate) Sign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe (https://rioprogress.org/subscribe) ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org (mailto:info@rioprogress.org)

11. 

    28 Sept 2025

    Ep. 06 How do you pursue your dreams?

    In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, sits down with cohort student Katia Lui to explore what it means to pursue your dreams and start changing the world. From first encounters with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to the joy of finding community with others who share the same mission, this conversation reflects on advocacy, resilience, and the importance of being unafraid of holding onto your goals. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: rioprogress.org (https://rioprogress.org) Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep6 Resources: United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (https://sdgs.un.org/goals?utm_source=chatgpt.com)| UNESCO Education for Sustainable Development (https://www.unesco.org/en/sustainable-development/education?utm_source=chatgpt.com) | RioProgress Advocacy Initiatives (https://rioprogress.org/) Support our work: Donate: rioprogress.org/donate (https://rioprogress.org/donate) Sign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe (https://rioprogress.org/subscribe) ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

12. 

    21 Sept 2025

    Ep. 05 How can we show up for our kids?

    In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus and parent Sofia Mera leads a candid discussion about the realities students and families face when navigating high school course selection, transitioning to a new district, and making sure students have what they need. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress.org (https://rioprogress.org/) Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep5 (https://rioprogress.org/ep5) Resources: FAFSA Application (https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa)| Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board – Dual Credit (https://tea.texas.gov/academics/college-career-and-military-prep/dual-credit) | UTRGV Admissions (https://www.utrgv.edu/admissions/index.htm)| Scholarships.com (https://www.scholarships.com/)| National College Attainment Network (https://www.ncan.org/) Support our work: Donate: rioprogress.org/donate (https://rioprogress.org/donate) Sign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe (https://rioprogress.org/subscribe) ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

13. 

    14 Sept 2025

    Ep. 04 What counts as reading?

    In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, and guest Beatriz Morales reflect on how early experiences with libraries, family, and community shaped their paths in education. They explore what counts as “reading,” the role of cultural wealth, and how support networks make higher education more accessible and meaningful. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: rioprogress.org (https://rioprogress.org/) Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep4 Research mentioned: graphic novels as literacy (https://www.ctd.northwestern.edu/blog/research-behind-graphic-novels-and-young-learners?sort=alpha)| cultural wealth (https://www.everylearnereverywhere.org/blog/cultural-wealth-in-higher-education-putting-assets-based-perspectives-into-practice/) | peer support & mentorship (https://edstrategy.org/spotlight-near-peer-mentoring-program-expands-opportunity-for-male-students-of-color/) Resources: Brownsville Public Library (https://www.brownsvilletx.gov/2421/Library) | National Endowment for the Arts reading studies (https://www.arts.gov/stories/blog/2024/federal-data-reading-pleasure-all-signs-show-slump) Support our work: Donate: rioprogress.org/donate (https://rioprogress.org/donate) Sign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe (https://rioprogress.org/subscribe) ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

14. 

    7 Sept 2025

    Ep. 03 Why not go to college?

    In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus and Noel Rangel, continue the conversation on what it means to pursue higher education while navigating financial, cultural, and personal challenges. From FAFSA and the hidden costs of college, to learning the “academic language” of higher ed, Maria & Noel reflects on the realities students face and the strategies that can make the journey more sustainable. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: rioprogress.org (https://rioprogress.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep3 Resources: Apply Yourself… to Higher Ed (https://rioprogress.org/college-prep/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — includes FAFSA support as part of their cohort program Navigating Semester 1: Advice for First-Years (https://rioprogress.org/getting-ready-for-college/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) — general guidance on navigating college resources and advising Support our work: Donate: rioprogress.org/donate (https://rioprogress.org/donate) Sign up for updates: rioprogress.org/subscribe (https://rioprogress.org/subscribe) ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

15. 

    31 Aug 2025

    Ep. 02 How do you find your path?

    In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, and guest Sarah Chavez (future LPC!) discuss what it's like to find your path and work towards it. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: https://rioprogress.org/ Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep2 Research mentioned: Dual enrollment (https://ccrc.tc.columbia.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/revamping-dual-enrollment-equitable-college-degree-paths_1-1.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com) | Managing expectations (https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ557113) | Social support (https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236748851_Social_Support_Self-Esteem_and_Stress_as_Predictors_of_Adjustment_to_University_Among_First-Year_Undergraduates) | Sunk cost fallacy (https://thedecisionlab.com/biases/the-sunk-cost-fallacy) |Medical schools w/full rides (https://www.bestcolleges.com/news/free-medical-school-universities-programs/) | Resources: TEA on Dual Credit (https://tea.texas.gov/academics/college-career-and-military-prep/dual-credit) | Student Loan Exit Counseling (https://studentaid.gov/exit-counseling/) | Texas Reality Check (https://texasrealitycheck.com/) |UTRGV Clinical Ph.D program (https://www.utrgv.edu/cla/academic-programs/clinical-pyschology-phd-program/index.htm) | Vaqueros MD Early Assurance Program (https://www.utrgv.edu/som/admissions/som-programs/vaqueros-md/) | Coach Mario Makes Workouts Fun (https://www.instagram.com/coach.mario25/) Support our work: Donate: https://rioprogress.org/donate Sign up for updates: https://rioprogress.org/subscribe ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

16. 

    24 Aug 2025

    Ep. 01 What is RioProgress?

    In this episode, our executive director, Maria Fernanda Martinez-Donaus, and our Director of Operations, Phil Donaus, discuss what RioProgress is, how it came to be, and where it's going. Don’t forget to check out our resources on navigating college access, student success, and educational equity at RioProgress: https://rioprogress.org/ Relevant Links: Our full episode notes can be found at rioprogress.org/ep1 Research mentioned: Cohort Model (https://doi.org/10.1177/23328584211049223?ref=rioprogress.org) | Parents & Latinx Success (https://doi.org/10.1080/15348431.2023.1406182?ref=rioprogress.org) | 1000 Books by Kinder  (https://1000booksbeforekindergarten.org/?ref=rioprogress.org)| Cultural Wealth (https://doi.org/10.1080/1361332052000341006?ref=rioprogress.org) Resources: UTRGV Luminary Scholarship (https://www.utrgv.edu/scholarships/freshman-scholarships/utrgv-luminary-scholars/index.htm?ref=rioprogress.org) Support our work: Donate: https://rioprogress.org/donate Sign up for updates: https://rioprogress.org/subscribe ► For partnership inquiries: info@rioprogress.org

17. 

    22 Aug 2025

    Ep. 00 How do you watch a podcast?

    In this short episode, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your podcast experience. Learn how to adjust playback speed, turn captions on or off, and save episodes so you can come back to them anytime. En este episodio corto, te mostraremos cómo aprovechar al máximo tu experiencia con el podcast. Aprende a ajustar la velocidad de reproducción, activar o desactivar subtítulos y guardar episodios para regresar a ellos cuando quieras.

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Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.